Re-engaging with Volunteers

Last week, we celebrated National Volunteer Week, an opportunity to thank the people who make our community stronger, especially in times of need.

Volunteering brings people together, creating a better society for everyone.

The selfless contributions of around 900,000 volunteers in South Australia are an essential part of the fabric of our community. They play a vital role every day, especially in times of need.

The global pandemic has had a significant impact upon volunteering, particularly in aged care. Visitor restrictions, mandatory vaccination, masks, singing and entertainment restrictions and limited group sizes, has meant that volunteer participation has dropped markedly in the past two years.

While COVID-19 reduced their involvement, it also highlighted the invaluable contribution that volunteers make, at a time when social connections are even more important.

Volunteers have found other ways in which to assist. At Resthaven, for example, a group of dedicated volunteers supported the residential sites by packing and distributing Rapid Antigen Tests that had been supplied in bulk from the federal stockpile and SA Health. This saved valuable time for staff when they were most stretched due to COVID-19.

In March 2022, the Australian Government announced its ‘Re-engaging volunteers into residential aged care facilities program’. This program responds to recommendation 44 of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, and recognises the value of the contribution made by volunteers in aged care in providing companionship and emotional support for older people. One on one visits to those who receive few visitors makes a real difference in their quality of life.

By volunteering with an aged care provider, you can help to alleviate the isolation and loneliness that aged care residents and clients have experienced during the pandemic. It is a fantastic way of complementing the work of paid staff who deliver the direct care and support for residents and clients.

Now that restrictions have eased a little, it’s time to re-engage. If you have time and can spare an hour or two on regular basis, why not consider volunteering? You will find the rewards of bringing smiles to those you support are priceless.

Thank you to all the volunteers who make such a valuable contribution to our communities.

Opinion piece by Darren Birbeck
Chief Executive Officer
Resthaven Incorporated